Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46By YM/MGySgt Blake Hulett Hendricks County (IN) Last June, Division 5 conducted a Leadership School take place at Camp Atterbury,IN.I had the opportunity of being the Academy SgtMaj for this mighty Academy of 53. On the way there, I was thinking that I wouldn’t be stressed and this school should run smoothly. I was wrong.This school was an amazing challenge, but isn’t that what this program is about, the challenges? I had the chance to work with some great staff.The first two days it was kind of a time to get a feel for everyone and the environment and then Observe/Orient/Decide/Act (known as the OODA Loop). The rest of the week ran smoothly, the schedule had to be changed many times, but we didn’t let that stop us from get- ting all the necessary training in and still have time for some fun. The classes went rather smoothly, splitting them between staff (including myself). My favorite class to conduct was the Leadership Evaluation Class (or LEF). It was fun to teach. There’s a lot to learn from it and all who attended now know how to fill out the LEF’s.One thing we focused on most in that class were the ratings, representing six levels of performance. We explained each rating and explained that you should al- most never have an Outstanding in the LEF’s because it is as likely to get an Outstanding as it is to see a Purple Unicorn (or something that is not likely to exist). So with all of these challenges and tough situations I faced, Academy Director (Scott Riley from Columbus [IN] Young Ma- rines) and I learned how those challenges turn into solutions. Those solutions helped me stand out, and I was recognized as the Outstanding Young Marine (or the “Purple Unicorn”) and received the Meritorious Service ribbon, which I was not expecting. I thank Mr. Riley, and Division Commander Mr. Ron Pownall for this amazing opportunity. I hope to do it again in the coming year and show myself up! 5th Div Leadership School: Overcoming Challenges By YM/LCpl Daniel Kocsis Upstate (SC) I have recently been assigned the role of squad leader and have given a lot of thought to the meaning of this position. I need to live up to this title and help those under my care to grow, to succeed, to benefit from their involvement with this program. I need to arrive early and make sure my squad arrives on time, that their uniform (or the required attire for the day) is squared away, their guide books are with them, as well as the appropriate PT gear, and anything extra required for that day. I was given a notebook, I need to use it wisely. Supplies are NOT to be wasted (in fact, nothing I am given is to be wast- ed). In my notebook, I will keep a record of each of my squad members, and if they have met all of their requirements. I need to get to know each of my squad members well in order to help them grow and be successful in this program. I need to discuss with each one their progress, and where they need help. If I am not doing all of this, I am wasting precious time of those who have entrusted this position its responsi- bilities to me.Our Unit Commander,Executive Officer,Training Officer, and Adjutant do not have any of their own kids in this program, yet they put in their time for the sake of the Young Marines as if each of us were a child of theirs.I never take this for granted. I need to live up to the trust placed in me, I do all I can. When I am given any assignment by my superiors, I take it very seriously, fulfill it to the best of my abilities, and make sure that those in my squad always do the same with every assignment. It is my responsibility to make sure that everyone in my squad is well aware of every assignment and comes well prepared. I need to make sure that all new information reaches those who are unable to view our Facebook page by using other means of contact. Friends are good to have, but that should in no way interfere with my responsibilities in this program. My performance is always observed and evalu- ated by my leaders, by those who sacrifice their time for me and place Young Marines under my care. My behavior should be an example to others and my leadership skills practiced to prove worthy of their trust. What It Means To Be a Young Marines Squad Leader 38 YOUNG MARINES ESPRIT ONLINE